Mees Hartmann (1996) is a self-taught analog photographer based in The Netherlands. He specializes in analog portrait photography and is passionate about experimenting with established and innovative darkroom techniques. With a unique blend of vintage gear and endless enthusiasm, Mees’ work is driven by his firm belief in having a strong personal connection with his subjects.
His first introduction to photography took place in his early teens. At first trying to work with digital cameras for a little while, but never really getting the hang of it. A few years later he bought his first analog camera, which flipped his switch to becoming a completely analog photographer. Suddenly everything seemed to make sense. He fell in love with the process and soon moved on to medium and large format photography
There’s a charm in the way you cannot retake an analog picture. You have to think of the setting and take into account the emotion you want to provoke. There’s less room for error, but at the same time, in this minor space of time the most beautiful moments are being captured.
Currently, Mees is experimenting with various darkroom techniques and alternative processes. Over the last few years, he’s made the darkroom his natural habitat.
While still trying to find his own artistic voice, he finds that what he likes to do most is portray his subject’s personality through his portraits.
